Segun Adeyemi

<h2>The Muslim world is preparing for the start of Ramadan 2025, but the exact date will depend on the sighting of the new crescent moon.</h2>

<p>Fasting will begin on either Saturday, March 1, or Sunday, March 2, with different countries observing the holy month based on their own moon sighting traditions.</p>

<p>This year, there is a possibility that some countries in the Western Hemisphere may witness the crescent moon before Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which traditionally leads the announcement of Ramadan’s start.</p>

<p>According to Crescent Moon Watch, a lunar tracking service run by the United Kingdom’s Nautical Almanac Office, the astronomical new moon will emerge on February 28 at 3:45 am Mecca time (00:45 GMT). </p>

<p>However, it is unlikely to be visible in most regions, including the Middle East, Europe, and South Asia, until the following day.</p>

<h2>How Moon Sighting Determines Start of Ramadan</h2>

<p>The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months, which last either 29 or 30 days. </p>

<p>Ramadan begins when the crescent moon is spotted after sunset on the 29th night of the previous month, Shaaban. </p>

<p>If the moon is not visible, the month of Shaaban extends to 30 days, and Ramadan automatically starts the next day.</p>

<p>Moon sighters will be on the lookout on the night of February 28, scanning the western horizon shortly after sunset. </p>

<p>If the crescent is seen, Ramadan will begin on March 1; if not, fasting will commence on March 2.</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia relies on moon sighters’ testimonies to determine the start of the holy month, with the Supreme Court making the final declaration. </p>

<p>The kingdom’s decision often influences other Muslim-majority nations, though some countries follow independent astronomical calculations.</p>

<h2>Different Ramadan Start Dates Across the World</h2>

<p>Ramadan’s start date varies across countries due to differences in <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67a9e58aacab8c9492a461e0/F2025Feb28.pdf"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red"><strong>moon sighting practices and time zones. </strong></mark></a></p>

<p>This year, Crescent Moon Watch suggests that the new moon may first be visible in the Pacific, North America, and parts of South America on February 28.</p>

<p>If the crescent is not sighted in Mecca that night, Saudi Arabia will observe Shaaban for a full 30 days, meaning Ramadan will begin on March 2. </p>

<p>Many countries in the Global South, including most of Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East, are expected to follow this timeline.</p>

<p>For regions where the moon is visible earlier, local religious authorities may declare March 1 as the first fasting day. </p>

<p>This means some Muslims could begin fasting a day before others, a common occurrence due to the lunar-based system.</p>

<h2>The Significance of Ramadan in Islam</h2>

<p>Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, marking the time when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago. </p>

<p>Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside the declaration of faith, daily prayers, charity, and the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.</p>

<p>From dawn to sunset, observant Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations, aiming to achieve greater “taqwa” or consciousness of God. </p>

<p>The fast is broken at sunset with the Maghrib prayer, often beginning with dates and water, followed by a full meal.</p>

<p>During this period, working hours are typically reduced in Muslim-majority nations, and restaurants remain closed during fasting hours. </p>

<p>Many businesses and schools adjust their schedules to accommodate fasting individuals.</p>

<p>As Muslims prepare for the spiritual month, exchanging greetings is a cherished tradition. </p>

<p>The most common phrases used are “<strong>Ramadan Mubarak”</strong> and <strong>“Ramadan Kareem,” </strong>meaning <strong>“Blessed Ramadan”</strong> and <strong>“Generous Ramadan,” </strong>respectively.</p>

<p>While these greetings are widely used across the Muslim world, many countries have local variations in their native languages. </p>

<p>The sentiment, however, remains the same—wishing friends and family a peaceful and fulfilling Ramadan.</p>

<p>With moon sighting efforts underway, millions of Muslims worldwide are eager to welcome Ramadan, a month of devotion, self-discipline, and community. </p>

<p>The official announcement from Saudi Arabia and other Islamic authorities will set the tone for the start of fasting in 2025.</p>

This year, there is a possibility that some countries in the Western Hemisphere may witness the crescent moon before Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which traditionally leads the announcement of Ramadan’s start.

The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months, which last either 29 or 30 days.

Ramadan 2025 moon sighting: Why some countries may see it before Mecca

<h2>A tragic incident at Lebechi Hospital in Owerri, Imo State, has sparked outrage after a doctor reportedly watched a YouTube tutorial while performing a Caesarean section, leading to the death of both a pregnant woman and her baby.</h2>

<p>The bereaved husband,<strong> Onyekachi Eze</strong>, narrated the harrowing experience in a video shared on Instagram by Nollywood producer <strong>Stanley Ontop</strong>. </p>

<p>According to Eze, he took his wife, who was in labour, to the hospital, where doctors informed him that she required an emergency Caesarean section due to excessive bleeding.</p>

<p>However, Eze was horrified when he witnessed the doctor and medical staff watching a YouTube video during the operation. </p>

<p><i>“Right in my presence, they were using their phones to watch a YouTube video on how to perform surgery. </i></p>

<p><i>“I lost my wife and my baby during the process,” </i>he lamented.</p>

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<p>Following public outcry, law enforcement authorities intervened, arresting the owner of the hospital. </p>

<p>A second video released by Ontop confirmed the arrest, stating, <i>“The owner of the hospital where doctors were watching YouTube on how to perform surgery has been arrested.”</i></p>

<p>While some nurses have also been detained, the doctors responsible for the botched surgery have reportedly absconded, with police intensifying efforts to track them down. </p>

<p>The tragic incident has raised concerns over medical negligence and unregulated healthcare practices in the state.</p>

The bereaved husband, Onyekachi Eze, narrated the harrowing experience in a video shared on Instagram by Nollywood producer Stanley Ontop.

While some nurses have also been detained, the doctors responsible for the botched surgery have reportedly absconded, with police intensifying efforts to track them down.

Pregnant woman dies as doctor watches YouTube tutorial video for caesarean operation in Imo

<p>Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old Briton, has been sentenced to one year in a Dubai prison following a holiday romance with a 17-year-old girl, also from London.</p>

<p>The case has sparked widespread criticism, with campaign group Detained In Dubai calling his treatment a <i>“disgrace.”</i></p>

<p>Mr Fakana was arrested during a family trip to the UAE in September after the girl’s mother discovered their private chats and photos.</p>

<p>Upon returning to the UK, she filed a complaint with Dubai authorities, citing the country's strict age of consent laws. Under UAE law, the girl, though now 18, is considered a minor.</p>

<p>The arrest left Mr Fakana and his family blindsided.</p>

<p><i>"Police turned up at our hotel and took me into custody without explanation,"</i> he recounted.</p>

<p>The young Briton claimed the relationship had been kept secret due to the girl’s "<i>strict family."</i></p>

<p><strong>Radha Stirling</strong>, head of Detained In Dubai, criticised the handling of the case, stating, <i>"[Marcus] was desperately hoping to come home this week, but prosecutorial mishandling prevented the case from being treated as a misdemeanour."</i></p>

<p>The family has sought the intervention of Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who is also their local MP. The Foreign Office confirmed it is in contact with Mr Fakana’s family.</p>

<p>Dubai’s legal system enforces strict regulations on alcohol, drugs, and sexual relations, with the age of consent firmly set at 18.</p>

<p>Dubai's prosecutor defended their actions, stating, <i>“The legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial proceedings.”</i></p>

<p>This case follows a similar controversy earlier this year involving an Irish cabin crew member charged with attempted suicide in Dubai. Advocacy efforts eventually saw the charges dropped.</p>

<p>Mr Fakana is expected to appeal his sentence.</p>

Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old Briton, has been sentenced to one year in a Dubai prison following a holiday romance with a 17-year-old girl, also from London.

Under UAE law, though now 18, the girl is considered a minor.

18-year-old young man jailed in Dubai over romance with 17-year-old girl

<h2>Contrary to common belief, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has ranked Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio, a key indicator of a country’s financial strength, as the second lowest in Africa, underscoring its economic stability.</h2>

<p>This ranking underscores the importance of evaluating a country’s financial strength through metrics like <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/domestic/most-indebted-african-countries-to-the-imf/g086sef" title="Nigeria ranked 2nd least indebted country in Africa">the debt-to-GDP ratio. </a></p>

<p>A lower ratio suggests economic stability, while a higher ratio raises alarms about debt sustainability.</p>

<p>Tanzania, a model of careful debt management, holds the top spot with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 41.8%, reflecting its prudent financial decisions.</p>

<p>Nigeria follows closely with a ratio of 41.3%, signifying its crucial role in Africa’s economy, even though its external debt stood at $41.59 billion or N31.98 trillion as of December 2023.</p>

<p>Nigeria’s relatively modest debt levels are due to several reasons, including its diverse economic sectors and efficient debt management practices.</p>

<p>According to the Nigerian Tribune, the Debt Management Office (DMO) reports that Nigeria’s total debt is approximately N97.34 trillion.</p>

<p>Through careful debt management, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/full-list-nigeria-falls-to-4th-in-africas-economic-ranking-for-2024/27sf5r1" title="Nigeria ranked 2nd least indebted country in Africa">Nigeria has maintained economic stability </a>and boosted investor confidence, resulting in a favourable debt position despite its significant role in Africa’s economy.</p>

<p>African nations with low debt levels, like Nigeria, are not only more attractive to investors but also stand a higher chance of receiving additional financial support from global and local creditors, thanks to their reduced economic risk.</p>

<p>Nigeria’s higher ranking than Cameroon, Chad, Comoros, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Ethiopia, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights its strong debt standing.</p>

Contrary to common belief, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has ranked Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio, a key indicator of a country’s financial strength, as the second lowest in Africa, underscoring its economic stability.

Nigeria ranked 2nd least indebted country in Africa

<h2>In the dynamic landscape of African cities, some stand out for their quality of life, offering residents a blend of opportunities, amenities, and cultural richness.</h2>

<p>These cities exemplify the diversity and dynamism of urban life in Africa. Each has its unique charm and appeal, making them top choices for residents <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/international/top-10-african-cities-with-the-best-quality-of-living/9bzge8h">seeking a high quality of life on the continent</a>.</p>

<p>According to the Numbeo Quality of Life Index for 2024, here are the seven best African cities to live in:</p>

<ol><li><strong>Cape Town, South Africa</strong>: Nestled between mountains and sea, Cape Town is enchanted by its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighbourhoods.</li><li><strong>Pretoria, South Africa:</strong>&nbsp;Known as the "Jacaranda City," Pretoria boasts a pleasant climate, leafy suburbs, and a strong economy, making it an attractive choice for residents.</li><li><strong>Durban, South Africa:&nbsp;</strong>With its golden beaches, warm climate, and bustling waterfront, Durban offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle and a thriving business environment.</li><li><strong>Johannesburg, South Africa:</strong>&nbsp;As Africa's economic powerhouse, Johannesburg dazzles with its skyscrapers, cultural diversity, and energetic vibe, attracting professionals and entrepreneurs alike.</li><li><strong>Nairobi, Kenya:&nbsp;</strong>Kenya's capital is a melting pot of cultures and ideas, with a burgeoning tech scene, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to stunning wildlife reserves.</li><li><strong>Cairo, Egypt:</strong>&nbsp;With its rich history, iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, and bustling markets, Cairo remains a captivating destination that blends tradition and modernity.</li><li><strong>Lagos, Nigeria:</strong>&nbsp;Africa's busiest city, is a hub of commerce, innovation, and creativity. It pulsates with energy and offers endless opportunities for those willing to embrace its vibrant chaos and</li></ol>

Top 7 destination to live in Africa. [Getty Images]

In the dynamic landscape of African cities, some stand out for their quality of life, offering residents a blend of opportunities, amenities, and cultural richness.

These are the 7 best African cities to live in 2024

<p>In its latest ranking, Covenant University claimed the top spot in Nigeria for the second consecutive year running by surpassing renowned institutions like the University of Ibadan and the Federal University of Technology, Akure, according to the 2024 rankings.</p>

<p>Situated in Ota, Ogun State, Covenant University has secured its position among the world's top 1,000 universities.</p>

<p>Since 2018, when it initially gained recognition as the best university in Nigeria and the sixth-best overall, it has consistently maintained its status in the THE rankings.</p>

<p>The University of Ibadan settled for second place, closely followed by Covenant University, with the Federal University of Technology, Akure, securing third place.</p>

<p>According to the British Magazine, this ranking encompasses 1,904 universities across 108 countries and regions.</p>

<p>Other notable universities that are listed in rankings in Nigeria include the University of Ilorin, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Afe Babalola University, the University of Benin, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Lagos State University, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Obafemi Awolowo University, and the University of Port Harcourt.</p>

<p>In terms of distribution, among the top 15 universities, nine are situated in the South West, two in the South East, two in the South-South, one in the North West, and one in the North Central region.</p>

<p><strong>See the top 15 list below</strong></p>

<p>3. Federal University of Technology, Akure</p>

<p>10. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta</p>

<p>11. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology</p>

<p>18. Alex Ekwueme Federal University</p>

The Covenant University retained the top spot while the University of Lagos missed out on the top three spot [Facebook]

List of best universities in Nigeria 2024

The Times Higher Education, a British magazine renowned for reporting news and issues related to higher education, has released the rankings for the best universities in Nigeria and the world.

Full list of best Nigerian universities in 2024

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